A report from the Independent Gambling Authority (IGA) includes proposed changes for the gambling industry that have won the support of the state government in South Australia. The IGA has described the changes, some of which will require legislation, as minor amendments but employer groups warn of job losses. The suggested legislation is in response to problem gambling levels, which are higher than average throughout much of Australia.

South Australia is not the only state to be rewriting the rules regarding the installation and use of pokie machines at pubs, clubs and hotels. The proliferation of the gaming machines has led to increasing concerns over gambling addiction. The IGA, according to South Australia’s state governor, is giving the gambling industry the opportunity to take greater responsibility for reducing harm from gambling in the way they run their venues.

The IGA report says that significant limitations on signage, both indoor and outdoor, are needed. It also says that loyalty programmes and other inducement to gamble should be banned. The suggested ban on the sale of keno tickets at non-licensed premises will not be adopted, nor will increasing the minimum age to 18 for people selling lottery products. The government was quick to reassure small businesses such as newsagents on these points.

The IGA wants the sight and sound of pokies to be screened so the machines can be neither seen nor heard from other areas. The government has said that it will consider reducing the hours of opening for gambling venues, also suggested in the IGA report. Many of the proposed changes could be in place before the end of the year. (E-05.17.07)

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